CSI-0182: Introduction to Queer Studies

Course Information

Instructor Info:

Stephen Dillon

Term:

2013F

Meeting Info:

Monday

09:00 AM - 10:20 AM Franklin Patterson Hall (FPH) 101

Wednesday

09:00 AM - 10:20 AM Franklin Patterson Hall (FPH) 101

Description:

Introduction to Queer Studies explores the emergence and development of the field of queer studies since the 1990s. In order to do so, the course examines the relationship between queer studies and fields like postcolonial studies, gay and lesbian studies, transgender studies, disability studies, and critical race studies. Students will come away with a broad understanding of the field, particularly foundational debates, key words, theories, and concepts. As part of their research, students will explore alternative genealogies of queer studies that exceed the academy. Some questions that guide the course include: How have art, film, activism, and literature influenced the field? What people and events are critical to queer studies that may be ignored or forgotten? In this way, students will come away understanding the contours of the field, but they will also work to reimagine the field and its history.

Evaluation Criteria:

Attendance

My attendance policy is as follows: I do not distinguish between excused and unexcused absences. You are permitted three absences throughout the semester. If you miss more than three classes, you will not receive an evaluation. You are also expected to be on time to class, which means 9:00 sharp. If you are late twice, I count that as one absence. In addition, if you are absent, you are responsible for contacting a classmate to find out what you missed.

Late work

I do not accept late work or give extensions (except in the case of major family/medical emergencies). I do give you one 48-hour extension that you may use for any assignment except the final assignment. You must let me know before the assignment is due that you will be using your one-time extension. Use this extension wisely.

Incompletes

I only give incompletes in extreme circumstances. Do not plan on receiving one.

Assignments

You must complete all assignments. If you do not, you will not receive an evaluation. All assignments are due by 9:00 am. You will submit all assignments on Moodle.

The assignments are as follows:

* Confusion Journal: Over the course of the semester, you will write 3 “confusion journals” on a passage from a course reading. These are 1-2 page documents. We will discuss this assignment the first day of class.

* Reading Responses: Over the course of the semester, you will write 5 critical reflections on the readings. These are 1-2 page documents. We will discuss this assignment the first day of class.

* Critical Analysis: Over the course of the semester, you will write three short 5-page papers that draw on course readings and discussion to analyze an object of your choice (TV show, film, event, personal experience, current event, etc.).

* Final Paper: For the final paper, you will revise and expand one of your Critical Analysis papers into a 10-page paper.